Today we’d like to introduce you to Spencer Charles.
Spencer, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started doing photography about 3 years ago. I was going through depression and needed a new creative outlet. Before photography, I was a musician and a writer but had lost all passion for doing those things. I started shadowing a friend of mine who is a photographer then eventually started shooting myself. It slowly started to help me come out of depression.
Has it been a smooth road?
There’s been a ton of struggles. I’ve struggled creatively with trying to find my niche and produce stuff I’m proud of. I’ve struggled financially like all artist – still struggling. I remember getting dressed for one of my very exhibits in the dark because my lights were off. I’ve struggled personally – looking at other artist and wondering why I’m not where I want to be yet or how long it’ll take me to get here or there or why I’m not getting this opportunity or this attention or whatever. Struggles come with the territory.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
My plan is to become a creative director – I want to continue creating content but on larger scales.
Let’s explore some of the challenges you’ve faced along the way. What was the most difficult part of your career so far?
One of the hardest parts of my career was finishing my book. The entire process was difficult in general. But as I finished all of the photos, design, layout, etc., and started to move into the printing and finishing touches process, I lost someone close to me and lost inspiration to continue working. What should’ve taken me a couple weeks to do, took me 3-4 months. Eventually, I had to push and regain focus so I could finally put the book out.
What about “Wow-moments” – any moments that stick out? Any moments when you felt like you had made it?
I still don’t feel like I’ve made it. But going to Paris was a real wow moment for me. I booked a couple shoots over there; when I showed up to shoot one of the models, she had a friend with her to translate cause she didn’t speak English. Her friend told me how much they both loved my work and how excited some of her other friends were that she was shooting with me. I had no idea anyone outside of Atlanta knew who I was, definitely not Paris. It just showed me that no matter what we’re struggling with in regards to our career, we have no idea the people we’re touching with our art.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.thestuyvesant.com
- Email: sgreene.savvy@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spencer_charles/
- Other: http://lasergunsandcongodrums.tumblr.com
Image Credit:
All photos taken by Spencer Charles
Models:
Rayvin Brown
Maryum Rabia
A-la Renee
Kristof Brown
Maryam Ali
Shauntel Brown
Marina Skye
Kayla Marie
Khadijah Wright
Ju’Ne Key
